Minimally Invasive Repair for All Abdominal Hernias
Whether you have a groin hernia or a belly button bulge, our advanced robotic and laparoscopic techniques ensure a durable repair with less pain and a faster recovery.
Understanding Your Condition
A hernia occurs when an organ or fatty tissue squeezes through a weak spot in a surrounding muscle or connective tissue called fascia. Think of it like a tire with a weak spot where a bubble forms.
Important to know:
Hernias do not heal on their own. They tend to get larger over time, and early treatment prevents serious complications like strangulation (where blood supply is cut off).
Types of Hernias We Treat
We specialize in treating all types of abdominal hernias with advanced minimally invasive techniques.
Inguinal Hernia (Groin)
The most common type of hernia. It occurs when tissue, such as part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles in the groin area.
Who gets it:
Much more common in men, but can happen in women.
Symptoms:
A bulge on either side of your pubic bone that becomes more obvious when you're upright, especially if you cough or strain.
Umbilical Hernia (Belly Button)
A protrusion of the intestine through the umbilical opening in the abdominal muscles.
Who gets it:
Common in adults due to obesity, multiple pregnancies, or fluid in the abdominal cavity (ascites).
Symptoms:
It creates a soft swelling or bulge near the navel (often looking like an "outie" belly button).
Ventral / Incisional Hernia
A hernia that appears at the site of a previous surgical incision. The abdominal wall may have weakened where it was previously cut, allowing tissue to push through.
Who gets it:
Patients who have had prior abdominal surgery.
Symptoms:
A bulge or weakness at the site of a previous surgical scar.
Why We Use Minimally Invasive Techniques
At California Surgical Specialists, we rarely use the old "open" method with large incisions unless absolutely necessary. Instead, Dr. Abidali and Dr. Qureshi specialize in Robotic (da Vinci®) and Laparoscopic repair.
Tiny Incisions
We operate through small holes the size of a dime, reducing scarring.
Better Visualization
High-definition 3D cameras allow us to see nerves and vessels clearly, protecting them during repair.
Less Pain
We avoid cutting through large muscles, which significantly reduces post-operative pain and the need for medication.
Faster Return to Life
Most patients walk comfortably the same day and return to light work within a week.
Strengthening the Wall
Following the gold standard guidelines from the American College of Surgeons, most adult hernia repairs utilize surgical mesh.
Why Mesh?
Suturing the hole closed creates "tension" (pulling the muscles tight), which is painful and has a high failure rate. Placing a mesh patch creates a "tension-free" repair.
How it works:
The mesh acts like a scaffold. Over time, your body's own tissue grows into the mesh, creating a reinforced, strong abdominal wall that prevents the hernia from coming back.
When to See a Doctor
You should schedule an appointment if you notice:
- A noticeable bulge or lump in the abdomen or groin.
- A burning or aching sensation at the bulge.
- Pain or discomfort in your groin, especially when bending over, coughing, or lifting.
Medical Emergency:
If the bulge turns red, purple, or dark, or if you have nausea, vomiting, and cannot push the hernia back in (incarceration), seek emergency care immediately.
Expertise You Can Trust
Hernia repair is one of the most common surgeries performed, but who performs it matters. Dr. Abidali and Dr. Qureshi bring specialized training in abdominal anatomy. Dr. Abidali's background in transplant surgery provides him with exceptional skills in handling delicate tissues, while Dr. Qureshi's double-board certification ensures a comprehensive approach to abdominal health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Stop Modifying Your Life Around Your Hernia Pain
Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward a pain-free life.
Schedule Your Consultation Today